From grassroots workers to environmental champions, India honours silent changemakers shaping society nationwide on Republic Day
On the occasion of Republic Day 2026, the Government of India announced the names of 45 people who will receive the Padma Shri, the country’s fourth-highest civilian honour. This year, the focus remains on people who worked quietly for years and created meaningful change in their communities without seeking recognition.
Unsung Heroes
This year’s Padma Shri list highlights unsung heroes from across the country. The government chose individuals who made lasting contributions in social service, education, healthcare, environment, art, culture, and public welfare. Many awardees come from remote and marginalised regions, proving that impactful work often happens far from the spotlight.
About Padma Awards
The Padma Awards rank among India’s most prestigious civilian honours and are announced every year on the eve of Republic Day. The awards fall into three categories: Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri. The 2026 announcement mainly features names selected for the Padma Shri category, which recognises distinguished service in any field.
Among the selected names, environmentalist Mohan Nagar from Madhya Pradesh will be honoured with the Padma Shri 2026. His recognition reflects the growing national focus on environment protection and sustainable community initiatives. His work has made a long-term impact at the grassroots level.
Complete List of Awardees
The full list of 45 Padma Shri awardees for 2026 includes:
- Anke Gowda
- Armida Fernandez
- Bhagwandas Raikwar
- Bhiklya Ladakya Dhinda
- Brij Lal Bhat
- Budhri Tati
- Charan Hembram
- Chiranji Lal Yadav
- Dharmiklal Chunilal Pandya
- Gafruddin Mewati Jogi
- Hally War
- Inderjit Singh Sidhu
- K Pajanivel
- Kailash Chandra Pant
- Khem Raj Sundriyal
- Kollakkayil Devaki Amma G
- Kumarasamy Thangaraj
- Mahendra Kumar Mishra
- Mir Hajibhai Kasambhai
- Mohan Nagar
- Naresh Chandra Dev Varma
- Nilesh Vinodchandra Mandlewala
- Nuruddin Ahmed
- Othuvar Thiruthani Swaminathan
- Padma Gurmet
- Pokhila Lekthepi
- Punniamurthy Natesan
- R Krishnan
- Raghupat Singh
- Raghuveer Tukaram Khedkar
- Rajastapathi Kaliappa Goundar
- Rama Reddy Mamidi
- Ramchandra Godbole
- Sunita Godbole
- S G Susheelamma
- Sangyusang S Pongener
- Shafi Shauq
- Shrirang Devaba Lad
- Shyam Sundar
- Simanchal Patro
- Suresh Hanagavadi
- Taga Ram Bheel
- Techi Gubin
- Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsalam
- Yumnam Jatra Singh
Moreover, the awardees come from a wide range of fields, including healthcare, education, folk art, tribal welfare, social reform, public service, and environmental work. Over the years, many of these recipients dedicated decades of their lives to serving society and continued their efforts despite limited recognition or financial support.
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Ceremony Ahead
Meanwhile, although the government announced the awards on Republic Day, the official award ceremony will take place later. As per tradition, the President of India will formally present the Padma Shri honours during a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, usually held in March or April.
Bigger Message
Through the Padma Shri 2026 list, the government aims to honour ordinary citizens with extraordinary impact. By recognising people from diverse regions and backgrounds, the awards reinforce the values of service, dedication, and inclusive national progress that Republic Day stands for.
